SU History Dept’s American Week Highlights Freedom 250 Exhibition, AIT Talk

“American Week” opened at Soochow University’s Waishuangxi Campus on May 13, 2026, with the “Freedom 250” special exhibition marking the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. Organized by the Department of History, the program featured historical exhibits and a keynote lecture focusing on American history, democratic development, and Taiwan-U.S. relations.

The opening ceremony was attended by SU President Chyan-Long Jan and American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Political Officer Aaron Huang, university administrative heads, faculty members, students, and AIT representatives.

Jan noted that Soochow University has maintained close ties with the United States since its founding in 1900, adding that the university was led by three American presidents during its early years, and these historical ties have shaped the university's long-standing commitment to liberty and democracy.

Following the opening ceremony, Huang delivered a keynote lecture titled “Looking at Taiwan, Looking at America: An American Perspective on Identity and Global Vision.” He said the American story is rooted in self-governance and liberty, and that a shared pursuit of justice and equality continues to connect the United States with democratic societies such as Taiwan.

Huang, a second-generation Taiwanese American, recalled attending elementary school in Taipei before returning to the United States. He said his journey from a low-income household to Harvard University and the U.S. Department of State showed how diverse backgrounds can strengthen diplomacy. He called his multicultural background a “superpower” that helped him build trust and serve as a bridge between Taiwan and the United States.

The "Freedom 250" America250 special exhibition in the Second Academic Building offered a chronological timeline of 250 years of American history, with displays featuring influential figures including Jackie Robinson, Helen Keller, and Julia Child. Visitors could take QR code personality quizzes to discover which American historical figure best matched their personality and enjoy themed beverages prepared by the university's mixology club.

During the question-and-answer session, students asked about the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), U.S.-China relations, and social systems. Huang explained that while the U.S. Department of State has reduced its workforce, AIT has expanded its staff since relocating to its Neihu compound. He added that U.S. policy toward China has shifted from expectations of economic liberalization to long-term strategic competition.

Concluding the event, Department of History Chair Ling-Pei Lu said “American Week” provided a valuable platform for cross-cultural exchange. He added that democracy, liberty, and respect for diversity depend on continuous dialogue and mutual understanding.